Cairo is one of the most important cities on Earth. Once upon a time this city was the centre of the most advanced civilisation on the planet. Now, the city sits at the strategic meeting point between East and West. Visitors often begin their stay with a sight-seeing trip around the Ancient landmarks. The best way to appreciate these sites of historic importance is by car, as the local guided tourist buses can rush the visit. The city is also the spiritual home of the world's longest river, the Nile. Also near the centre of the city, Cairo has a magnificent marketplace where the visitor can taste some unique spices and experience Egyptian life at its most raw.